Recovery of cultural tourism in Kathmandu after the 2015 earthquake

Abstract

The 2015 Nepal earthquake with its epicentre in Gorkha, central Nepal, caused devastating damage to Kathmandu’s cultural heritage sites, severely affecting the city’s tourism sector and local economy. The thesis focuses on the recovery of cultural tourism in Kathmandu, the restoration of tangible heritage, the preservation of intangible cultural practices, changes in restoration projects inclusive of community participation, and the demise of the local economy mainly dependent on tourism revenues. A qualitative case study approach was used, in which semi-structured interviews were implemented with key stakeholders—including government officials, UNESCO representatives, local artisans, tourism operators, and community members—alongside an analysis of relevant secondary data from official sources.

Findings indicate that recovery efforts were to some extent hindered by bureaucratic delays, limitations of funds, and coordination challenges. Regardless, the strong participation of local communities and utilization of traditional skills, tools, and resources have been instrumental in preserving cultural authenticity and boosting resilience. The economic impact of the earthquake on tourism-dependent communities was consequential. Large communities reliant on tourism revenues almost collapsed. However, initiatives from government, international organizations, Nepalese diaspora along with affected local communities have emerged with effective strategies for promoting inclusive recovery and long-term development of heritage sites and tourism in Kathmandu.

The need for nationwide integrated disaster management, strategic communication between parties, and inclusive planning is highlighted for a more resilient and sustainable cultural tourism sector after natural disaster. As a result of this research, policy recommendations were proposed including establishing a centralized recovery framework—for example, an active national disaster management institute—integrating disaster risk management into tourism planning, and utilizing modern technology and tools to support rebuilding and restoration projects affected by natural disasters. The study contributes to broader discussions on post-disaster recovery in heritage-rich developing countries and offers practical guidelines for crisis preparedness, management, and sustainable tourism development.